On May 2, the U.S. Coast Guard medically evacuated a 47-year-old fisherman who severely injured his hand while hauling gear on the F/V SANDY ROSE about 12 miles south of Jonesport, Maine. Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Northern New England received a 9-1-1 relay around 9:25 a.m. from the 41-foot fishing vessel and immediately launched a 25-foot response boat. The injured fisherman was transferred to EMS at Station Jonesport and taken to Bangor Eastern Maine Medical Center for treatment.

Hand injuries are a common fishing accident.  Through the years, Latti & Anderson LLP has represented many clients who, as a result of fishing accidents, have sustained amputations to their fingers that have caused significant limitations for the fishermen.  Hand injuries are particularly difficult for fishermen due to the permanency of the injury and the inability of the victim to return to sea to work.  Fingers and hands have been injured by getting caught in winches, wires and blocks, or are crushed by gear and/or nets. In these cases, Latti & Anderson LLP has received top verdicts and settlements by proving that the injury was the result of the negligence of the Defendant and/or the unseaworthiness of the vessel.

The risk of serious injury or death is high in the commercial fishing industry, making it important for fishing vessels to have functional communication equipment. With hand injuries in particular, it’s important to receive proper medical attention as quickly as possible to prevent amputation or further damage. According to Chief Petty Officer Rob Childress, “Having proper radio equipment helped the distressed fishermen reach us so we could arrive on scene as quickly as possible.” In this case, the injured worker was transported to a medical facility, where he was able to receive prompt medical treatment for his injury.

Injured fishermen may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Have you been injured in a fishing accident? Contact a Boston maritime attorney today to learn about your rights under maritime law.

Latti & Anderson LLP – Boston maritime trial lawyers